The Bromic Tungsten Smart-Heat 500 Series leads this guide — Australian-designed infrared with strong directional throw that stays effective even in wind, making it the best pick for open patios. The Heatstrip Intense 2200W Outdoor Heater is a mid-range runner-up for covered areas. Prices across this guide range AU$89 – AU$899.
Editor's choice
BBromic
Bromic
Bromic Tungsten Smart-Heat 500 Series
Premium Australian-designed infrared heater with the best directional heat throw for open patios
Outdoor heaters extend the usability of Australian patios, decks, and alfresco dining areas well into the cooler months. While Australian winters are mild compared to northern hemisphere standards, evening temperatures across Melbourne, Canberra, Hobart, and even Sydney regularly drop enough to make unheated outdoor spaces uncomfortable from May through September. The choice between gas and electric outdoor heaters depends on your setup. Gas models, fuelled by LPG bottles or mains natural gas, produce substantial heat output and work independently of power outlets, making them suitable for freestanding installations on large patios. Electric infrared heaters mount overhead or on walls, heat objects and people directly rather than warming the air, and perform better in breezy conditions where gas mushroom heaters lose effectiveness. IP ratings matter for any heater exposed to Australian weather. Look for a minimum of IPX4 for rain splash protection. Hardwired electric models require installation by a licensed electrician in every state, adding to upfront cost but providing a cleaner, more permanent setup. Running costs vary: electric infrared heaters typically cost under $1.20 per hour, while gas heaters run between $2 and $4 per hour depending on output. This guide evaluates five outdoor heaters available on Amazon Australia based on published specifications, heat output, and weather ratings rather than hands-on testing.
Requires dedicated 15A circuit — not a plug-and-play install
Price sits in the premium bracket at $500+
Editor's note
Peak demand for outdoor heaters in Australia hits April–May, so retailers like Bunnings and The Good Guys run clearance from September. Bromic and Heatstrip are the go-to Australian brands for infrared, while Gasmate dominates the LPG mushroom heater segment. Budget electric options from Devanti and Maxkon are fine for covered balconies but lack the throw for open patios. The Australian BBQ market is the largest per capita globally. Weber dominates the premium segment, while Matador and Jumbuck serve the mid-range. Gas (LPG) remains the most popular fuel type, but charcoal and pellet grills are growing in popularity among serious outdoor cooks. The ideal BBQ for Australian conditions has a stainless steel hood, wind protection, and sufficient cooking area for the standard Aussie gathering of 6–10 people.
Our take
After reviewing the outdoor heater australia category, the wide temperature swings between Australian seasons is a factor too many guides ignore. Australian shoppers will find the Bromic Tungsten Smart-Heat 500 Series delivers the most consistent results. Budget-conscious buyers should also consider the Heatstrip Intense 2200W Outdoor Heater for solid long-term savings. A surprisingly common blunder is skipping BTU ratings versus actual cooking area in the research phase. The Gasmate Stellar Black Patio Heater also deserves consideration for buyers with specific needs.
Honourable mentions
Weber Spirit E-315
Three-burner gas BBQ with GS4 grilling system and Flavorizer bars that vaporise drippings for smoky flavour.
Yes — even in Brisbane and Perth, evening temperatures drop enough in winter to make outdoor dining uncomfortable. A patio heater adds 3-4 months of usable outdoor time per year, which justifies the $150-$500 investment for most households that entertain regularly.
What type of outdoor heater is most efficient?
Electric infrared heaters are the most energy-efficient because they heat objects and people directly rather than warming the surrounding air. Gas mushroom heaters waste significant heat upward. For cost per hour, a 2kW electric infrared heater costs roughly $0.60-$0.80/hr on Australian electricity rates versus $1.50-$2.50/hr for a 12kg LPG bottle heater.
Can you use a patio heater on a balcony in Australia?
Electric patio heaters are generally fine on apartment balconies. Gas heaters with LPG bottles are banned on many strata balconies under state fire regulations — check your building's by-laws. Wall-mounted electric infrared models are the safest and most space-efficient choice for balcony use.
How much does it cost to run an outdoor heater in Australia?
A 2kW electric heater costs approximately $0.60-$0.80 per hour based on average Australian electricity rates of $0.30-$0.40/kWh. A gas mushroom heater using a 9kg LPG bottle costs around $1.50-$2.00 per hour. Running costs vary by state — South Australia and Queensland have higher electricity prices than Tasmania.
Are outdoor gas heaters being banned in Australia?
No blanket ban exists nationally, but some councils restrict gas patio heaters in enclosed outdoor areas due to carbon monoxide risk. Victoria has tightened rules around gas appliances in new builds. Check your local council regulations before purchasing a gas outdoor heater.
What outdoor heater is best for the Australian winter?
Infrared electric heaters like the Bromic Tungsten or Heatstrip Classic suit most Australian winters, which are mild compared to northern hemisphere climates. They heat objects directly rather than warming the air, making them effective even on breezy evenings across Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane.
How much does it cost to run an outdoor heater in Australia?
A 2400-watt electric outdoor heater costs roughly $0.80 to $1.20 per hour at average Australian electricity rates. Gas heaters using a 9kg LPG bottle cost approximately $2 to $4 per hour depending on output. Electric infrared models are generally cheaper to run.
Do outdoor heaters need to be installed by an electrician in Australia?
Hardwired electric outdoor heaters must be installed by a licensed electrician in all Australian states. Plug-in portable electric heaters do not require professional installation. Gas outdoor heaters connected to mains gas require a licensed gas fitter for installation.
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Aussie availability
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Affiliate disclosure: AUPicks may earn a commission from links on this page at no extra cost to you. This never influences our rankings. Curated by Bikram Nath · Last updated 2026-07-14.